Presentation by UL Adams-Jack With input from Nicola de Jager and Derica Lambrechts
Why did we initiate a Community Interaction project? Thinking about democratic consolidation The required value set My rights, my rights……… Responsibilities? Goal: inculcate the values of democratic citizenship in high school learners from grades 10 to 12
What did we learn? Nicola de Jager: The scholars (and teacher) were generally very receptive. Many of them enjoyed engaging with the challenges of a democracy and contributed to the discussions. What worked well was having the teacher in the class room at all times. Scholars (as happened in my last class) can try and push the boundaries with a guest speaker, and the teacher is therefore necessary if there is the need to maintain order in the class.
What did we learn? Ubanesia Adams-Jack: Democratic government and citizenship is part of the life orientation curriculum Sometimes more challenging to keep 20 in line than 200 The circumstances that some teachers face everyday Community interaction is enjoyable but time consuming
What did we learn? Derica Lambrechts: In my case students responded well to practical examples and also visual material. For example, I talked about the role of the media and I had two Zapiro cartoons. My students had to make a poster and they enjoyed the practical side more than me talking. I graded them on their posters, so if you want to do something practical, keep it structured (and formal – stipulate the ‘rules of the game’). I have to mention the time factor; you have to be prepared to set aside an entire day, as the time of the periods changed on the day when I arrived at the school. It is best therefore to stay at the school and clear your schedule for that day.
The way forward Two-pronged training: substantive issues (content of lecture) basic lecturing skills (how to handle the groups, how to get them engaged, possible challenges). We will be present with the student volunteers for at least their first lecture to guide them. Add another school in 2011